Expediter pleads guilty to bribing Newark officials

An expediter from Essex County has pleaded guilty to bribing officials in Newark for real estate permits. Lamont Baxter, 49, admitted to bribing city officials as part of his job from 2017 to 2022. Baxter faced seven counts, including conspiracy to give bribes and wire fraud. He was involved in illegal activities with former council member Joseph A. McCallum. His role as an expediter meant he helped people and companies get permits needed for construction and real estate projects. The U.S. Attorney’s office reported his guilty plea on Monday as part of ongoing efforts to combat corruption.